Tussock moth infestation found in Blues

WALLA WALLA, Wash. (AP) - The state has discovered a newinfestation of Douglas-fir tussock moths in the Blue Mountains ofWashington and Oregon. Light defoliation was mapped across 9,000 acres of the UmatillaNational Forest, with most of that in Washington. Most of thedefoliation occurred in the Wenaha-Tucannon Wilderness Area, but itmay spread and increase in severity this year. Officials say another tussock moth outbreak that affected 1,600acres in eastern Spokane County in 2011 will likely end this year. The defoliation can reduce growth, cause top-kill, and may makesome trees vulnerable to attack by bark beetles.